Relish Dish 1870 - 1880

This clear-glass relish dish was made by Adams and Company, though the exact date is unknown. Such dishes, with their simple elegance, became increasingly common in middle-class homes in the United States during the late 19th century. As industrial production of glassware became more efficient, items that were once luxury goods became attainable for a broader segment of the population. The “hobnail” pattern, seen here as raised bumps on the exterior, simulated the look of more expensive cut glass. This allowed manufacturers to mass-produce affordable pieces that still conveyed a sense of refinement. We can learn much about the changing social landscape through everyday objects like this one. Trade catalogs, company records, and even household inventories can reveal insights into patterns of consumption, class aspirations, and the democratization of design. The story of this relish dish offers a glimpse into the material culture of a rapidly changing society.